By Dianna Brodine, managing editor, UV+EB Technology
The UV/EB/LED curing industry gathered in Orlando, Florida, May 9-12 for RadTech 2022, getting “back to business” by gathering for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic began. The 18th biennial conference and exhibition featured more than 100 presentations and 60 exhibitors highlighting the latest innovations in UV LEDs, 3D printing materials, coatings, formulations and more.
With the Florida sunshine as a backdrop, attendees were able to learn from leaders in research and practical application in a wide variety of topics related to current opportunities for curing technology. These included structural and flexible electronics; additive manufacturing; building materials; and specialty applications in food and packaging, biomaterials and optical fiber. Advances in cationic curing were discussed, as were regulatory issues; equipment considerations; sustainability concerns; next-level formulations; and optimized materials. The classroom sessions were supplemented by panel discussions on the event floor and short courses.
Lunches set on the rooftop and a reception on the event floor offered opportunities for attendees to connect after spending much of the last two years without the ability to network in person. The Emerging Awards Dinner extended the camaraderie as the association for UV&EB technology honored the winners of its 2022 Sustainability Awards (see more on page 48) and the RadLaunch Class of ’22.
RadLaunch is the innovation accelerator for ultraviolet and electron beam technology. The annual program connects those who are pioneering scientific work in the field and supports them through recognition and industry connections. Honorees included Vitro3D and its volumetric 3D printed dental aligners; BC Cancer Agency, Centre for the North for its custom bolus for radiation therapy; and Ateios Systems for its rapid, low-cost and cleaner battery component manufacturing. A special academic award was presented to Whytneigh R. Duffie, PhD candidate in chemical and biological engineering, and Travis W. Walker, associate professor in chemical and biological engineering at South Dakota School of Mines & Technology for disappearing 4D advanced materials. These winners will be featured in greater detail in future issues of UV+EB Technology.